The Place des Vosges is the centerpiece of Paris’ trendy Marais neighborhood. This lovely, landscaped square was first constructed in the mid 17th century – part of an ambitious city beautification project championed by King Henri IV. Thirty-six brick and stone town houses line a square public green space, with the ground levels housing art galleries, sidewalk cafes, antique stores, and trendy restaurants. The Place des Vosges has been home to a long list of notable Parisians. Madame de Sevigny, known for her detailed letters to her daughter that bring 17th century Parisian daily routines to life, was born here. The author Victor Hugo lived here for 16 years, and Cardinal Richelieu, powerful advisor to Louis XIV, stayed here frequently. Today, you can stay right at the square in the luxurious Pavillon de la Reine hotel.You can tour Victor Hugo’s former home, where he wrote “Les Miserables,” and see some of his original furnishings and papers, or just sip a café au lait and watch the colorful neighborhood crowd.